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What is Bait in Poker?

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What is Bait in Poker?

What Does Bait Mean in Poker?

In poker, “bait” is a strategy where a player makes a weak hand appear stronger to lure opponents into betting more. Learn more about online poker.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Bait:

This term is commonly used in situations where a player is trying to trap an opponent by underrepresenting their hand strength, inviting more aggressive action.

In-Game Example:

You hold a weak pair and check on the flop in position, hoping to induce a bluff or larger bet from your opponent on later streets.

Strategy / Tips:

  • Best Practice: Use baiting to exploit aggressive players who overvalue their hands.
  • Common Mistake: Overuse of baiting can lead to missed value opportunities from strong hands that go unchallenged.
  • Pro Tips: Baiting works best in live games where you can gauge physical tells, but also effective online with opponents who are overly aggressive.

Alternative names:

Trapping, Setting the Trap

FAQs:

Q: How can I tell if someone is baiting me?

A: Look for inconsistent betting patterns or sudden aggression from typically passive opponents.

Related terms:

Sandbagging, Value Bet

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